The Rising Daughters™ are growing up and becoming more independent, as it should be. I marvel at the unique individuals they're becoming. Naturally, as teenagers they are developing their own interests and personalities. As parents, Naomi and I've learned to respect their choices. (Or, in my case, not ladle out too much “old people” scorn.) I am glad they’ve discovered hobbies and tendencies that make their heart sing. But it's easy to miss those days when the kids would just go along with whatever activity we thought was the right thing for them and their social development.
This is especially true when it comes to movies. Long gone are Disney flicks and Dr. Seuss videos. Our Netflix personalized recommendations are all very different and reflect our personality quirks. So how to choose a movie to see at the movie theater becomes an issue—and an opportunity for family time. Family movie nights are a tradition that keeps us close, a ritual that has become even more cherished as the kids grow up.
Choosing which movie can sometimes be a challenge, but it is also part of the fun. We attempt to take turns, and it's interesting to observe Lady E. or the M. debate the merits of a particular movie and try and persuade the rest of us to see it. Would they rather see these movies with their friends? Probably. But their friends won’t provide transport and buy the snacks.
Thus, we have developed a habit of family night at the movies where we choose the movie through compromise, common purpose and restraint. This preserves our mini-civil society.
Early last summer we saw “Mission Impossible: Dead Reckoning.” It was a no brainer because a blockbuster starring Tom Cruise rarely disappoints. There’s something for everyone there but nothing too naughty for teens.
Later, during the relentless heat and humidity of July, I convinced Elena to come with me to see “Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny” by bribing her with window shopping time before the movie, paying for her ticket, and lunch of her choice with the option of popcorn. However, we’d neglected to carefully check the movie showing date and time and we were thwarted by not paying enough attention. Zoinks! Ultimately, Lady E. still got her lunch and shopping, but I went to see the movie by myself a week later. What will be, will be.
Here's the thing: “The family that goes to the cinema together stays together." There's truth in that statement. The laughter, shared snacks, and post-movie chats about the plots or startling scenes have entertained us and helped sustain us as a family. As my daughters continue to develop and explore their interests, I'll cherish these family movie outings. It's a reminder that even as the Rising Daughters™ become more independent, our family will always have a special place for stories, visual spectacle and togetherness.
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